Abstract
As we develop practical, innovative and sustainable technology solutions for resource-constrained settings, what can we learn from the Appropriate Technology (AT) movement? Based on a review of academic literature over the past 35 years, this article identifies, and chronologically maps, the defining tenets and metrics of success advocated by scholars. The literature has gradually evolved from general musings into concrete lessons learned, while the definitions of “success” have transitioned from laboratory success into practical application and long-term usefulness. Nonetheless, juxtaposing this scholastic history with actual projects reveals three major gaps in AT philosophy related to a lack of 1) bilateral knowledge exchange, 2) emphasis on venture scalability, and 3) integration of implementation strategy through the project lifecycle. This article argues that rethinking and repositioning AT with a human-centric narrative emphasizing sustainability and scalability is imperative in order to revitalize and accelerate the AT movement and to achieve the large-scale impact it was expected to deliver.
Highlights
Appropriate technologies (ATs) refer to simple, typically labour-intensive and local-manufactured, technology solutions that aim to improve the lives and livelihoods of people in resource-constrained environments
While the Appropriate Technology literature recognises the importance of evaluation and uses the word “success” universally, the definition of success varies considerably
Application or implementation success, on the other hand, means that those capabilities can be harnessed in the situations for which they are intended
Summary
Appropriate technologies (ATs) refer to simple, typically labour-intensive and local-manufactured, technology solutions that aim to improve the lives and livelihoods of people in resource-constrained environments. An examination of the academic literature and praxis indicates that the definition of Appropriate Technology, and its bounds of “appropriateness,” have diffused to accommodate developments in globalisation, shifting macroeconomic and political environments, and changing user preferences (Steenkamp et al, 2003; Upadhyay, 2003; Baker & Edmonds, 2004; Estime, 2005; Ferrantino, 2009; Law, 2011) While this evolution is certainly important and warranted, it has compromised the clarity of valid means and ends that provide inspiration and guidance to new AT ventures. This article delves into the academic literature related to Appropriate Technology from 1978 to 2013 It provides a comprehensive review of how the core tenets and definitions of success promoted in literature have evolved over time, and endeavours to identify gaps that have prevented the movement from achieving its full potential. “An era of Appropriate Technology: Evolutions, oversights and opportunities” – Lissenden, Maley & Mehta 25
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